Arrival Guide 2017 by The University of Manchester

arrival guide 2017

Preparing you for your journey to Manchester

welcome to manchester

You are joining a modern and dynamic institution with some of the best facilities in the world, while still retaining a strong sense of its long and proud history.

With 25 Nobel Laureates among our current and former staff and students, ideas and innovations developed right here at Manchester have helped to shape the modern world, and can be seen clearly through our distinguished academic history. Today, we continue to push boundaries through interdisciplinary research and offer teaching by experts at the forefront of their subject. We are ranked among the most respected institutes of higher learning worldwide. By joining us, you are becoming part of a truly international community of students from more than 160 countries. Manchester is one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most vibrant cities, with a rich and diverse social and cultural life. It is also a hub of enterprise and development, and has a long tradition of embracing people from all around the world. Whether you are here as part of an exchange or study abroad programme or undertaking your whole degree with us, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure that you will be pleased to call Manchester home during your studies.

We look forward to welcoming you to The University of Manchester. Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell President and Vice-Chancellor

KEY DATES 2017-18

how to use your arrival guide

Orientation: 14-17 September 2017 Welcome: 18-22 September 2017 Semester one: 18 September 2017-28 January 2018

(break 15 December 2017-15 January 2018)

Semester two: 29 January-8 June 2018

(break 23 March 2018-16 April 2018)

This booklet will help you prepare for coming to the UK, and give you an insight into what to expect when you get here. The information is split into three sections, setting out what you can do in advance of your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

• What to do now • Before you leave • Arriving in Manchester You can contact the International Office on +44 (0)161 275 2196 or email offer@manchester.ac.uk. We can’t wait for you to join us in September! @admissionsUoM admissionsUoM orientationUoM

www.manchester.ac.uk/arrival-guide

contents 1 what to do now 08 1 0 1 6 18 2 2

your offer immigration english language requirements planning your finances bringing family to manchester

2 preparing to move 28 30 32 34 36 38 40

accomodation around campus settling in british culture around manchester staying safe orientation and welcome

3 arriving in manchester 4 4 46 48 50 5 2 5 4 5 6

preparing for registration travelling to manchester arriving in the uk keeping in touch getting around banking in the uk healthcare services

4 directory 60 support 62 learning resources 63 social and wellbeing 64 map

here to guide you Jay BA(Econ) Economic and Social Studies India

Erick Natasha LLB Law Malaysia

MSc Advanced Computer Science Tanzania

Cara

Justin

PhD Management of Projects

MSc International Relations

Ireland

USA

Maria BSc Biomedical Sciences

Clara BSocSc Politics and International Relations

Siyi BSc Textile Science and Technology China

France

Russia

Erik

Tanzania â&#x20AC;&#x153;I attended the pre-sessional English classes so I could learn the way British people speak. It was really useful, but the best way to learn the language is just to speak to people and ask questions.â&#x20AC;?

planning ahead

your offer

If you’re coming to Manchester as a Study abroad or Erasmus student, you should have already had details about the requirements of your admission.

If you’re an undergraduate offer holder, you should always check UCAS Track for details of your offer and the status of your application. If you’re a postgraduate offer holder, the specific conditions of your offer are set out in your official offer letter, which you should have already received. That letter will also tell you exactly what you need to do to accept your offer, and to meet any conditions.

“I love Manchester Art Gallery – the exhibitions are great, and I love their coffee too!” CLARA

Clara, Manchester Art Gallery

what next? If your offer is conditional You’ll need to meet certain conditions before we can confirm your place. Conditions vary, but they usually include achieving certain grades or qualifications, and sometimes an English language requirement. Occasionally a conditional offer will include non-academic requirements such as a health screening or enhanced DBS check (criminal record check). If you have any questions about the conditions of your offer, please contact the appropriate academic School at the University.

If your offer is unconditional You have already met the academic entry requirements. It is still possible you may still need to meet some non-academic requirements such as a health screening or criminal record check but this will be made clear in your offer letter or on UCAS Track. In most cases, however, if you’re an unconditional offer holder, you just need to accept your offer to confirm your place.

Tuition fee deposits If you are an international (non-EU) student studying on a one-year taught master’s course, you are required to pay a mandatory tuition fee deposit of £1000 before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued. The deposit is then deducted from your tuition fees.

If your tuition fees are fully funded by a third-party sponsor, if you are funded by a US student loan, or if you are attending an English language pre-sessional course at The University of Manchester, you are exempt and do not need to pay a tuition fee deposit.

Further information UCAS Track www.track.ucas.com Pay tuition fee deposits www.manchester.ac.uk/ tuitionfeedeposit

immigration It’s essential that you obtain the correct immigration permission before you start your studies with us. We encourage you to apply for it as soon as possible to avoid any complications. EEA and Swiss students If you are a citizen of the EEA or Switzerland, you are entitled to enter the UK freely and have the right to reside here while you are studying. You do not need any documentation to confirm this right, but we recommend that you apply for a Registration Certificate if you want to work in the UK. If you’re from Switzerland, EEA rules generally apply to you. If you’re from Croatia, slightly different rules apply: www.gov.uk/croatian-national The European Economic Area (EEA) consists of: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, the Republic of Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the UK.

University Place, Oxford Road

Now, skip to page 16 – the rest of this section is for international (non-EU) students.

International students (non-EEA or Swiss)

If you’re enrolled on a programme of study which is longer than six months, you will need to apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student visa. You can apply for a Tier 4 Student visa up to three months before the start of your course, and we advise you do it as soon as possible. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number is a unique 14 digit reference given to you by The University of Manchester. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will use this number to confirm that you are a genuine student. You do not need to request a CAS. If your offer is unconditional, we will send you your CAS number by email. We’ll also include any additional information for your visa application. You should receive it around four months before the start date of your programme.

If you already have a Tier 4 Student visa which is linked to another institution, you cannot use it to study with us. You must apply for a new Tier 4 Student visa before the start date of your course. If you are granted immigration permission for more than six months, you will initially be issued with a single entry visa that is valid for travel to the UK and a stay of one month. Once you enter the UK you need to collect your visa, called a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within ten days of arrival.

If you’re studying on a short course of six months or less, or an English language course of up to 11 months, you can apply for a Short Term Student Visa as long as you do not intend to extend your stay or work in the UK.

“The visa process can be daunting – but only if you let it! The key thing I would recommend is planning ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute, because then it gets stressful. I’d say at least three months in advance, start looking at what you need to do to get your visa, the places you need to go and the forms you need to complete. Then make a plan, and it’s a stress-free situation!” JUSTIN

Yo u r d u t i e s a n d responsibilities under Tier 4 (General) Student visa Under the terms of a Tier 4 (General) Student visa, you have a number of specific duties and responsibilities imposed by UKVI. These include: - Complying with the conditions of your immigration permission. - Attending your timetabled teaching periods and laboratory classes. - Maintaining satisfactory academic progress. - Keeping the University up to date with your immigration documents and contact details.

Yo u r p a s s p o r t Ensure that you have a valid passport before you travel to the UK. If you need to get a new one or if your current passport needs to be revalidated, do this as soon as possible because the process can take several months. You must have at least one page that is blank on both sides, and we recommend that your passport be valid for at least three months after your arrival in the UK. Your passport does not have to be valid for the duration of your course or for the full duration of your immigration permission.

Academic certificates When you come to Manchester to start your course, remember you need to bring original copies of your academic and English language certificates for the University to check.

ATA S ( A c a d e m i c Te c h n o l o g y A p p r o v a l Scheme) certificate ATAS requires all international (non-EEA/Swiss) students subject to existing UK immigration permissions, who are applying to study certain sensitive subjects, to apply for ATAS clearance certificate before they can study in the UK. Your offer letter will tell you if you need an ATAS certificate. You can apply for your ATAS certificate up to six months before the start date of your course even if your offer is still conditional. It takes at least 20 working days to get an ATAS certificate, and at busy times of the year (JuneOctober) it will take longer, so apply as early as possible at www.gov.uk/guidance/academictechnology-approval-scheme If you have further questions about ATAS, please contact us at: atas@manchester.ac.uk

Justin, Bridgewater Canal

“I love Albert Square – you can just walk around and soak up the culture.” CLARA

Health requirements Depending where you live, you may need to obtain a certificate confirming that you are free from infectious tuberculosis (TB) before you can apply for your UK visa. www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa You should be vaccinated against Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) and Meningitis ACWY before you leave your home country. If you are unable to be vaccinated before leaving your home country, vaccines for MMR and Meningitis ACWY are available from your GP (General Practitioner or doctor) in the UK. If you are applying for immigration permission (visa) for more than six months, you need to pay an additional fee to entitle you to free healthcare under the National Health Service (NHS). The charge is £150 per student for each year for the duration of your visa. If you are bringing family, the charge is the same for each of your dependants. You must pay the healthcare charge as part of your visa application, even if you have private medical insurance. You will receive an email with a confirmation reference number which you should keep safe in case you need it later.

Maria, Manchester Town Hall, Albert Square

If your visa application is refused If your visa application is refused, read carefully through the Refusal Notice that you are given – this sets out the reasons for the refusal. Try not to worry, and contact the University’s Student Immigration Team who will be able to advise you on what to do next. We will need to see a copy of the Refusal Notice, so please email a scanned copy to visa@manchester.ac.uk as soon as possible. If you are advised to apply again following the refusal, you will need a new CAS.

Extending your stay in the UK

UK immigration support

The endorsement in your passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will show how long you are permitted to stay in the UK.

The Student Immigration Team is trained to provide you and your family with specialist advice on complex immigration matters before you arrive and during your time as a student. If you experience any immigration problems please contact us immediately.

If you need an extension, you may need to apply for this from your home country. You must check your status with the Student Immigration Team at least three months before your immigration permission expires.

The Student Immigration Team is regulated by the Immigration Services Commission.

It’s important that you don’t stay in the UK after your immigration permission has expired, or you risk being deported and banned from returning to the UK for at least one year. For more information on extending your stay or working in the UK after you graduate, visit www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa/ extend-your-visa

Student Immigration Team www.studentsupport.manchester.ac.uk/immigration-and-visas tel +44 (0) 161 275 5000 email visa@manchester.ac.uk

Further information

Tier 4 (General) immigration www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa TB testing www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa ATAS certificate www.gov.uk/guidance/academictechnology-approval-scheme 15

english language requirements It’s important that you have enough knowledge of English to fully benefit from lectures and tutorials. For that reason, we need to ensure that you meet specific English language requirements. If you have a conditional offer, one of the conditions might be to achieve a certain score in an English language test approved by the University. If this is the case, it will say on UCAS Track or your offer letter. We currently accept the following qualifications for admission onto our courses at degree level or above:

• IELTS Academic (both the UKVI and non-UKVI tests) • Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE) – modules ISE II, ISE III or ISE IV

• Pearson Test of English (PTE) • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

• Internet-based TOEFL We accept a range of English language qualifications see our website for an up-to-date list: www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/admissions/ language-requirements

Pre-sessional English courses If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fully met the English language requirements for your course, you may be eligible to study a pre-sessional course in order to meet those requirements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; check with the relevant academic School. Find out dates and prices online at www.manchester.ac.uk/ presessional

I E LT S One of the most popular globally recognised English language tests is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) academic test. It is available from most British Council offices, and places fill up quickly, so early booking is essential. Our University Language Centre (ULC) is also an IELTS testing centre, so if you need to re-take IELTS you can do so here in Manchester. www.manchester.ac.uk/ languagecentre

Further information IELTS www.ielts.org Pre-sessional English language courses www.manchester.ac.uk/ presessional University Language Centre www.manchester.ac.uk/ languagecentre 17

planning your finances Tu i t i o n f e e s All university students in the UK are required to pay tuition fees. We have assessed your fee status according to the information you provided, and your offer letter will state the amount of tuition fees you are required to pay. www.studentsupport.manchester.ac.uk/finances/ paying-tuition-fees When you start planning to come to university in the UK, you need to make sure you have funds (or a sponsor or scholarship) to pay the fees. Tuition fees are paid as part of registration in September, although you can make a pre-payment if you wish. See page 45 for details.

Applying for a Tier 4 Student visa? You’ll have to prove you have a certain amount of money (currently £9,135) available for living expenses. www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa

International (non-EU) students Students from outside the EU are not normally eligible for any UK state benefits (social security, welfare) so it’s important you make sure you have sufficient funds to complete the duration of your course before you apply. We recommend that you have access to enough money to cover your immediate expenses such as accommodation deposits, rent and food, as it may take up to three weeks for you to open a UK bank account. We advise against bringing more than £200 cash with you, as most ATMs will accept foreign bank cards (although there may be a small charge) and credit and debit cards are widely used in most shops. Alternatively, you could consider bringing a prepaid credit/debit card.

“I plan a budget so I know how much I have to spend each day. It’s important to look at what you buy and think about it.” MARIA

Cost of living The cost of living in Manchester is similar to other major UK cities, and how much you spend will depend on your lifestyle. In addition to money for tuition fees, we estimate that a single student on a full-time course will require enough funds per year to cover the following living expenses: www.manchester.ac.uk/costofliving Expenses

Undergraduate (40 Weeks)

Postgraduate (52 weeks)

Accommodation (self-catering)

£4,995

£5,925

Meals

£1,525

£2,025

Books and stationery

£420

£505

Clothes

£400

£505

Local transport

£450

£685

Other general living expenses

£1,600

£1,930

Total

£9,390

£11,575 19

Budgeting and managing your money We offer all our students free access to our online money management resource, Blackbullion. It gives you control over your finances and will help you to make small changes to ease the stress of managing your money. It includes quick tips on making your money go further, ways to save as a student, food shopping tips and managing a budget. If you do experience any financial difficulties during your course, please take a look at our online Student Money Advice. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find the answer you are looking for, you can book an appointment to speak to a specialist adviser.

Further information Student Money Advice www.manchester.ac.uk/ssa/finances International student calculator www.international.studentcalculator.org Cost of living www.manchester.ac.uk/costofliving

Student cinema

ticket

Take-away fish and chips (£1 extra for mus hy peas - a must-try! )

£5.70

Eight month studen t gym membership

£100

Day return train ticket to London on a Sat urday (if booked in adv ance) Weekly grocery sho p

Posh afternoon tea (a treat for when your parents visit!)

how much?

£44

£41.59 (average) £22.00 per person (£28 with champagne)

Traditional Sunday roast dinner

£14 per person

Student theatre tic kets

£6

Manchester United tickets

£19

Music concert

Haircut

Rice cooker

To give you an idea of how much things cost in Manchester, here’s a list of average prices for some things you might want to spend your money on.

£5.65

£10-30 (depending on the band) £30 women £10 men £19

Lao Gan Ma crispy chilli oil

£1.48

Guided tour to Oxf ord with the Internati onal Society

£26 (members)

bringing family to manchester Not bringing family with you? Skip this section and go to page 26.

Further information UKVI definition of family members www.gov.uk/tier-4-generalvisa/family-members Immigration permission for dependants www.studentsupport. manchester.ac.uk/ immigration-and-visas Family information service www.manchester.gov.uk/ childcare

Many students choose to bring their partner and children with them when they come to study in Manchester. If you are thinking of bringing your family with you, make sure you understand all the rules and find out exactly what is required before you and your family travel to the UK, especially if you’re coming from outside the EU. Immigration Citizens of EEA countries (and Switzerland) If you and the family members you wish to bring are all citizens of an EEA country (or Switzerland), they can live in the UK without restriction. If you are a citizen of an EEA country (or Switzerland) but your family members are not, you might still be able to bring them with you. Each family member will need to apply for an EEA Family Permit before travelling to the UK, which is free of charge. The application can be made online or using the application form VAF5. www.gov.uk/family-permit

Citizens of non-EEA countries If you and your family members are citizens of a non-EEA country, you may be able to bring them with you. Each family member you wish to bring must apply for immigration permission as a Tier 4 Dependant Partner or Child before travelling to Manchester. It will save money and time if you all apply at the same time, even if you are planning to travel to Manchester at different times. If you are coming to Manchester to study an undergraduate degree or for a course of less than six months you can only bring dependants with you if you’re financially supported by your government. If their applications are successful, your family will be granted immigration permission for the same length of time as you. You need to provide official documents confirming your marriage and/or your relationship to children you are bringing, for example marriage or birth certificates, along with financial documents to prove you can support them while they are in the UK.

W h i c h f a m i ly m e m b e r s c a n yo u b r i n g to t h e UK under Tier 4 rules? UKIV use the term ‘dependants’ instead of family members when referring to Tier 4. Full guidance regarding which family members can apply to come to the UK, and what documentation you will need, can be found at: www.gov.uk/tier-4-generalvisa/family-members 23

University accommodation General information on University accommodation and how to apply can be found on page 28. We have limited accommodation for couples and families with children, and it does get taken quickly, so if you’re looking for family accommodation, apply as soon as possible. Private accommodation If you would prefer not to live in University accommodation, or if you are not able to secure a place, don’t worry – there are plenty of privately rented apartments and houses across Manchester. It can take time to find family accommodation within budget, and for that reason we suggest you wait until you have arranged suitable accommodation before bringing your family to Manchester. Under the Right to Rent Scheme, landlords have a legal requirement to check that you have valid immigration permission (visa) to be in the UK. This means you will be asked to provide your passport and visa when you apply to rent a property. Prices in the private sector vary depending on area, style and size, but as a rough guide prices (excluding bills) for the academic year 2017/18 are approximately: • 1 bed property or studio apartment: £350 to £500 per month • 2 bed property: £500 to £750 per month • 3 bed property: £550 to £850 per month

Childcare If you have young children with you in Manchester, it’s likely that you will require childcare. The range and cost of childcare varies considerably, and is generally quite expensive. You should expect to pay at least £25 per day for each child at a private day nursery or with a childminder (childminders look after children in their own homes, and should be registered with the Local Authority). All three and four-year old children, regardless of their nationality, are entitled to 15 hours of free nursery education for 38 weeks of the year. There is usually a waiting list for these services – contact the Manchester Family Information Service for details of childcare in your local area. If you are an EU citizen, you may be eligible for a UK government Access and Hardship grant to cover the cost of childcare, but these grants are not available to international (non-EU) students. There are two nurseries affiliated with The University of Manchester which accept children between six months and four years of age, with fees ranging between £100-160 per week. Both of these nurseries have long waiting lists, so we advise you to apply as early as possible. The Dryden Street Nusery tel +44 (0)161 272 7121 Echo Day Nusery tel +44 (0)161 200 4979

Yo u r c h i l d ’s e d u c a t i o n In England, most children start school in the September after their fourth birthday, and they must register in the year that they are five. They must either stay in full-time education or undertake an apprenticeship until they are 18. Typical school hours are 9am to 3:30pm, with many schools offering after school activities. If your course will keep you in the UK for more than 12 months, your children are required by law to attend school. The Local Authority will provide a place for them, free of charge, although the school where they are placed may not be the closest to where you live. There are also fee-paying private schools in Manchester. Many schools in Manchester employ specialist staff to support children for whom English is not their first language.

Yo u r f a m i l y ’s h e a l t h If you are an EU citizen, you, your partner, and any children living with you in the UK are entitled to free healthcare on the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Make sure you get an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for you and your family members and bring it along to appointments.

If you are a non-EU citizen and require a visa to come to the UK for more than six months, you will have to pay a healthcare charge for yourself and any dependants. Fa m i l y t r a v e l

Bus and Metrolink (trams)

Children under five can travel free on most buses and Metrolink trams in Greater Manchester. Children aged between five and 16 can travel for a discounted fare. If they are 11-16, children will need an ‘Igo’ pass, which costs £5, to prove their age and receive the discounted fare. Trains

Children aged between five and 16 pay half fare on most trains. Up to two children under five may travel for free with each paying adult. There are also a number of discounted passes for families, such as the ‘family and friends’ railcard which entitles you to a third off the price of rail travel.

Further information

Manchester Schools Admissions Team www.manchester.gov.uk/education Manchester Family Information Service www.manchester.gov.uk/fsdirectory Manchester City Council Schools and Education www.manchester.gov.uk/education 25

Natasha Malaysia

“I brought a long list of winter clothes, a raincoat, and lots of Malaysian food and spices. Also mentally, you need to gear yourself up. You know you’re not going to be home for a year, so you need to get yourself ready for the new experience.”

preparing to move

accommodation University accommodation You should have received My Manchester shortly after receiving your offer, with details of University accommodation and how to apply. You can access My Manchester at: www.manchester.ac.uk/study/ international/accommodation

We strongly recommend that you submit your accommodation application as soon as you receive an offer from us – you don’t need to wait for it to become unconditional.

Accommodation guarantee Remember, if you’re an international student (non-EEA citizen) coming to Manchester alone, we will guarantee you a place in University accommodation for the duration of your course. You must submit your application by 31 August in order to qualify for this guarantee and by mid-February in subsequent years. If you are an EEA or Swiss citizen, you are guaranteed accommodation for the first year of your studies, as long as you apply by 31 August. If you’re an Erasmus, Exchange or Study Abroad student studying at Manchester for a full academic year, you are guaranteed a place in University accommodation if you apply by 31 July. 28

C o u n c i l Ta x

“My first year in halls was really fun. That’s when you get to expand your circle and meet friends from outside your country. You meet so many people every day, and there’s so many events.” NATASHA

Council Tax is a local government tax which covers local public services (such as street lighting and waste collection). The majority of students are exempt from paying Council Tax, so if you are renting privately, you need to inform Manchester City Council that you are a full-time student and do not have to pay. Manchester City Council tel +44 (0)161 234 5000 email city.council@manchester.gov.uk

Te l e v i s i o n l i c e n c e

Private accommodation Manchester Student Homes can provide details of privately rented properties, independent housing advice, information about finding accommodation, and a free contract checking service. It can also give you a list of landlords who have been awarded the International Friendly Standard, which means you do not need to provide a UK-based guarantor or pay full rent up front. www.manchesterstudenthomes.com

Te m p o r a r y a c c o m m o d a t i o n If you would prefer to find accommodation in the

private sector, we recommend that you find temporary accommodation on arrival in the UK rather than agreeing to take a property that you have not seen. You can search for a property and contact landlords before you arrive, but you should not sign a contract or hand over any money before viewing a property. Temporary accommodation may be available in University accommodation but this is not normally offered until September. Manchester Student Homes can provide a list of hotels, hostels and short-term lets in Manchester.

In the UK all televisions must be licensed. A licence costs £145.50 per year, which can be paid in monthly instalments. If you have a television in your room in University accommodation or in any room in private accommodation, you will have to purchase a TV licence. www.tvlicensing.co.uk

Insurance Contracts for University accommodation include up to £6,000 of contents insurance against theft and loss, but not accidental damage. If you are living in private accommodation, you should get insurance as soon as possible after arriving. As well as dedicated insurance companies, many banks, major supermarkets and the Post Office also offer insurance. Check the premium carefully to see what is covered by the insurance.

Further information University accommodation www.manchester.ac.uk/accommodation Privately rented accommodation www.manchesterstudenthomes.com My Manchester publication online www.manchester.ac.uk/study/ international/accommodation 29

around campus

“I spend a lot of my time in the John Rylands Library. I love the smell of the old books – that’s hard to beat. And the beauty of the architecture makes you want to study!” JUSTIN

Where heritage meets modernism, our bustling campus combines superb facilities for studying with significant cultural landmarks. Start exploring as soon as you arrive – you might be surprised what you find! Justin, John Rylands Library

The John Rylands Library www.manchester.ac.uk/rylands The John Rylands Library is part of The University of Manchester Library and is free for you to use and study in. It is home to around 1.4 million items as part of the Library’s Special Collections, which you can access. There’s also a vibrant and free exhibition and events programme for you to discover more about the stories behind this grand neo-Gothic building. Interesting fact The library was founded by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband John Rylands, who was Manchester’s first multi-millionnaire. JohnRylandsLibrary @TheJohnRylands 30

The Whitworth www.manchester.ac.uk/whitworth The Whitworth was founded in 1889 as the first English gallery in a park and is one of Manchester’s best-loved cultural treasures. It’s a free gallery with an internationally significant exhibition programme, displaying both its own collection as well as international artists. The Whitworth recently underwent a £15 million development and has been transformed into a 21st century gallery in the park. Interesting fact The Whitworth has won a long list of awards, including Visit England Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and Art Fund Museum of the Year 2015. TheWhitworth @WhitworthArt

Erick and Jay, Alan Gilbert Learning Commons

Alan Gilbert Learning Commons www.manchester.ac.uk/library Located at the heart of the campus, the Learning Commons is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers you an inspiring space to learn and relax. This ultra-modern building is the UK’s first digital library and provides the latest IT facilities, flexible learning spaces as well as a host of other services.

“Alan Gilbert Learning Commons is great – you can study there, but you can also socialise at the same time. And it’s 24/7 so you can always go there.” JAY

Interesting fact The lighting in the building adjusts automatically according to the level of natural light and occupancy. @UoMLibrary

Manchester Museum www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Manchester Museum is the UK’s largest university museum and is home to one of the most important collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the UK. The Vivarium houses a wide variety of live animals including frogs, toads, snakes and other reptiles and amphibians, whilst the fossil gallery showcases fossils dating back to the Ice Age.

Manchester Museum

Interesting fact The star attraction of the museum is T.rex, affectionately named ‘Stan’.

31 The Whitworth

University Place

settling in Your first few weeks in Manchester will be an exciting time, with new places to discover, new people to meet and a new culture to explore. After the excitement and intensity of the first few weeks, some of you may feel a little homesick – but don’t worry, it’s completely normal, even among UK students! Make sure you get involved in University life and meet as many new people as possible – you’ll feel at home in no time. If you haven’t lived in the UK before, it is natural for it to take some time to adapt to the differences from your home country. Here are some things you can do before you arrive that might help you: • Watch films and television programmes set in the UK or listen to British radio stations online. • Connect with other new students through social media and find out more about Manchester online before you arrive. • Talk to people you know who have lived in the UK about how they found it, and what they did to settle in.

Vo l u n t e e r i n g We encourage you to get involved with the local community through volunteering. This is unpaid activity that benefits a charity or non-governmental organisation. There are many interesting opportunities including mentoring children, organising activities for older people, helping on conservation projects and fundraising. If you are interested in volunteering, you should bring a certificate of good conduct from a police station in your home country before you travel. 32

Manchester Art Gallery

Studying in the UK Once you’re here, there are lots of things you can do to settle in: • Orientation, includes a range of events to help you meet other new students. It’s important to take time out from studying to socialise and build new friendships – make the most of social opportunities and say yes to invitations.

At Manchester, you’ll participate in a number of different teaching and learning activities and research experiences. You will be supported to take responsibility for your own study, and encouraged to reflect and analyse what you learn. Find out more about teaching and learning at University: www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/ teaching-learning

• Remember that you are not alone. Everyone studying away from home will be going through similar experiences – good and bad. Talking to other students can be a great support.

Further information Clubs and societies www.manchesterstudentsunion.com

• Joining student societies can help you to meet people who share your interests. You can sign up for these at the Welcome Fair. A full list of clubs and societies is available on the Students’ Union website: www.manchesterstudentsunion.com

My Learning Essentials www.manchester.ac.uk/my-learning-essentials

International Society www.internationalsociety.org.uk

• The International Society promotes international friendship and celebrates cultural diversity. It organises trips, offers classes, and has a great cafe! It also runs a families group offering support to those who have brought family to the UK. • The University Counselling Service can provide support if you are finding it difficult to adjust to life in Manchester (see page 60).

“I did a lot of background research – looked on Google Earth, joining Facebook groups and looks of lots of pictures of the city online to get a sense of what it would be like”. CLARA

33 Old Quadrangle

british culture Depending where you’re from, you may find culture in the UK very different from what you’re used to at home. Key aspects of British Culture • Men and women have equal rights in all respects. • It is illegal to discriminate against anyone according to race, religion, gender, age, class, sexual orientation or disability. • The UK has a relatively liberal attitude towards alcohol, gambling and clothing style but everyone is free to live by their own beliefs and you should not feel under pressure to adapt your behaviour. • Punctuality is important and you will be expected to be on time for lectures and seminars. If you cannot arrive on time for an appointment, let the people you are meeting know as soon as you can. • It is illegal to smoke in enclosed public spaces such as restaurants, lecture theatres, public transport, or University accommodation, as well as some outdoor public spaces, including bus stops and train stations.

“Before coming to UK, the only accent I’d heard was the one in movies. For the first couple of days, I had no idea what my flatmate from York was saying! He told me every place in the UK has a different accent. It takes time, but you get used to it.” JAY 34

food Although the UK has lots of traditional dishes, British people have adopted cuisines from around the world and enjoy a very international diet. On Oxford Road, you’ll find Indian, sushi and American milkshakes alongside a Korean café and an organic vegan restaurant. Large supermarkets stock a range of foods imported from other countries, and foods meeting religious requirements, such as vegetarian, Halal and Kosher, are easy to find. Many areas in Manchester have speciality shops, delicatessens and local ethnic centres, including Chinatown, Cheetham Hill and Rusholme (Curry Mile), where you’ll find a wide variety of international foods. All British tap water is safe to drink unless it is labelled ‘not drinking water’.

Tipping Tipping in restaurants is not compulsory, but if you wish to give a tip, it’s normal to leave about 10% of the bill. Some restaurants automatically include a service charge (tip) on the bill, but usually only for large parties. “It’s really good to try new things – not just food from home. My Chinese mates taught me how to cook their food, which is delicious!” ERICK

around machester If you’re coming from far away, you might not get the chance to visit Manchester before you start your studies. Here’s a selection of the city’s highlights to give you a taste of all it has to offer!

“I love Selfridges - they have something for whatever mood I’m in!” SIYI

Siyi, Selfridges, Exchange Square

Manchester Central Library

“The Northern Quarter is my favourite place in the city – there are many bars and cafes.” JAY

Chinatown

“When I go to the city, I just like to explore. My friends and I just hang out, feed the birds and people watch.” NATASHA

Northern Quarter HOME, First Street

Old Trafford

Kora player, Manchester International Festival

staying safe

Manchester is generally safe, but as in any large city you should take precautions.

Personal safety • Avoid walking alone at night. • Stick to well-lit streets and avoid alleyways and empty car parks. • Use cash machines during the day when it is busy, always cover your PIN and be aware of any tampering with machines. • If you think you’re in danger or being followed, walk to the nearest shop and ask for help or call 999. • Student Safe Zones are businesses along Oxford Road that can offer assistance if you feel unsafe. • When using a taxi, take either a licensed black cab, a private hire taxi or book an Uber taxi online. The Students’ Union offers a ‘safe taxi’ scheme that ensures you can get home even if you have run out of money. For more information see: www.manchesterstudentsunion.com/ safetaxi

Piccadilly Gardens

• In pubs and bars, don’t leave your drink unattended, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. • Violent assault is rare in the UK and it is illegal to carry guns, knives or pepper spray. But, you still might want to carry a personal safety alarm – available from the Students’ Union during Welcome. • Take care when using your phone or listening to music with earphones when you’re walking, as this will make you less aware of your surroundings.

“Everything is really well lit, public transportation reaches lots of different parts of the city and I feel safe.” JUSTIN

Safety of your property • Don’t leave your possessions unattended when you’re out and about. • Don’t leave valuables such as phones, tablets or laptops on display in your room. • Make sure you keep windows and doors locked when you’re not in. • If your house has an alarm, remember to turn it on. • Don’t leave packaging from expensive items outside. • Be vigilant when using social media, check your security settings and don’t post images of valuable items. Who to call Dial 999 only in an emergency, where there is threat to life or property, or a crime is in progress. To report a crime after the event or for non-emergencies, call 101. To report a crime or anything suspicious on campus, call campus Security Services on 0161 306 9966. Call the Neighbourhood Helpline to report any complaints about student issues in the community on 0161 275 1863. Further information Student safety www.manchester.gov.uk Crime Reduction www.estates.manchester.ac.uk/crimereduction

orientation and welcome Orientation Orientation gives you the chance to find out everything you need to know about living and studying in Manchester and the UK. Participation in Orientation is strongly recommended for all new international and EU students, and is free of charge. Over the summer youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll receive your Welcome Pack in the post with details of all the events weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got planned. You can also stay up to date online at www.manchester.ac.uk/orientation or on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/OrientationUoM Most University accommodation contracts start on Thursday, 14 September, but check yours as they do vary. If you need to move before the normal start date, the Accommodation Office may be able to help. Email: accommodation@manchester.ac.uk

“There’s a lot of support from day one. There are people everywhere with smiles on their faces, ready and willing to help you out and figure out how to navigate a new place, and I think that’s amazing. There’s so many opportunities and activities to engage people, so you should never feel homesick.” JUSTIN

Orientation dates 2017/18 September start: Thursday 14 – Sunday 17 September 2017 January start: Monday 22 January 2018

We l co m e The week beginning Monday, 18 September is known as Welcome. This is where all students, UK and international, are welcomed to the University before lectures start. In addition to all the activities run by the University, the Students’ Union puts on many events including fairs where you can sign up to join societies and sports clubs. Your Welcome pack will give you details about all the events and how to get involved. You are also likely to have induction activities with your academic School or Faculty during this week. You will receive further details of these directly from your academic School before you arrive. Further information www.manchester.ac.uk/welcome

Jay India

“What did I bring? A friendly attitude – that really made a difference!”

arriving in manchester

preparing for registration Registration with the University is an online process where you confirm your personal information and details of your course, and is when you pay your tuition fees. If you’re coming from a non-EEA country, you’ll also need to attend international check-in once you arrive. You’ll receive a Get Ready guide this summer with instructions on how to register and complete international check-in if necessary you don’t need to do anything right now.

Alan Gilbert Learning Commons

“If you follow the instructions, it’s fine! It’s easy – you just need to be organised and follow the steps.” MARIA

Early tuition fee payments You can make a full or partial payment of your tuition fees in advance of registration, if you have firmly accepted an unconditional offer for an academic course at the University. Advance payment is not available to MBA students or those attending pre-sessional English courses. Information on how to pay early fees is available online: www.manchester.ac.uk/ earlyfeepayment

Police registration If you are studying with us for more than six months and come from certain countries, you will need to register with the police. You will be able to make an individual appointment online once you have arrived in the UK and have completed registration. Further details about how and where to register with the police will be provided in your Welcome pack, which you will receive this summer.

Students with a financial sponsor If you are sponsored by your government you will be required to provide a current letter of financial sponsorship or funding on official headed paper. Your sponsor organisation will be able to advise you if you are required to obtain a letter from your Embassy in London. The letter must indicate that tuition fees will be paid for the academic year 2017/18. As soon as you receive your letter submit it to sponsor.letters@manchester.ac.uk. This will ensure that you can register quickly and easily.

US and Canadian student loans For the purpose of US and Canadian government student loans, our name is listed as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The University of Manchesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and the School references are G12136 (US student loans) and PUBO (Canadian student loans). For further details please see: www.manchester.ac.uk/international/country

travelling to manchester What to bring We advise you not to travel with a lot of luggage as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often cheaper to buy things in the UK than to bring them with you. Pay careful attention to your luggage allowance as charges for excessive baggage and unaccompanied freight can be expensive. Label your luggage clearly with your name, your home address and your address in Manchester.

Manchester Airport

Hand luggage essentials • Valid passport with UK visa (International, non-EEA/Swiss citizens), or a valid passport or national identity card (EEA/ Swiss citizens).

• Your travel insurance details. (We advise you take out travel insurance to cover your journey and first two weeks in Manchester.) • Cash and bank cards.

• The academic qualification documents listed in your CAS statement as well as evidence of your English language proficiency. You must also include original documents to prove ﬁnancial support for tuition fees and maintenance, and a print out of your CAS statement. You should also include your TB screening certiﬁcate if one was required to obtain your immigration permission. (International, non-EEA/ Swiss citizens only). • If you are eligible to apply for a Short Term Student visa on arrival, you should bring the offer letter from your academic School and evidence that you can support yourself and pay (or have paid) your tuition fees. (International, non-EEA/ Swiss students only).

• Details of your destination in Manchester including address and contact telephone number. • This Arrival Guide, your Welcome Pack, and any other information you have received from the University. • If you are arriving by air and need to carry liquids in your hand luggage (such as essential medication or baby milk) please check the UK’s current hand luggage rules. If you are planning on bringing any food with you, check the HM Revenue and Customs list of banned and restricted goods to see if you will able to bring it into the UK. www.hmrc.gov.uk

arriving in the uk Manchester is one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major destinations and has excellent travel connections, with many airlines offering direct flights. Where possible, we recommend flying directly to Manchester Airport. Non-EU citizens If you are travelling to Manchester from overseas, you should fly directly into Manchester airport or transit through one of the other airports on the UK mainland. What to expect at the airport If you obtained your visa before travelling to the UK, you will need to show the Immigration Officer the documents you submitted with your immigration permission application. You should have these documents easily available in your hand luggage. If you are eligible to apply for a short-term study visa on arrival in the UK, you must show the Immigration Officer your short-term study letter or your offer letter, as well as evidence that you can support yourself and pay (or have paid) your tuition fees.

The Immigration Officer will ask you your reasons for coming to the UK, to check you are a genuine student and that you intend to leave the UK when you complete your studies. You should be able to explain your study plans clearly without having to use an interpreter. If you experience problems at immigration control, contact the Student Immigration Team as soon as possible (see page 61). The Immigration Officer will date stamp your passport to confirm that you meet the immigration requirements to study in the UK. If you are unclear about anything that you have been told by an Immigration Officer, or about what has been stamped in your passport, please contact the Student Immigration Team. Keep your boarding pass and ticket as you will need to provide details of how and when you travelled to the UK if you apply for another visa in the future.

Alternative transport from the airport Train to Oxford Road Station

20 minutes

Metrolink tram to Manchester Piccadilly 25 minutes

£4.20

Public bus to Piccadilly Gardens

£4.20

60 minutes

Taxi 20 minutes

Arriving via the Republic of Ireland If your course is shorter than six months and you are a non-visa national who intends to obtain a short-term study visa on arrival in the UK, you should not travel to the UK via the Republic of Ireland. If you do this, you will not pass through UK immigration control and you will not be able to obtain a visa to study.

£5

£25 (approx)

*All prices correct at the time of going to print, but subject to change.

Tr a v e l l i n g t o M a n c h e s t e r from within the UK Further information Manchester Airport www.manchesterairport.co.uk Train information www.nationalrail.co.uk UKCISA www.ukcisa.org.uk

Tr a v e l l i n g t o y o u r a c c o m m o d a t i o n Airport Collection Service During September Orientation, we offer an Airport Collection Service from Manchester Airport for students who are arriving on their own and staying in University accommodation. The service is run by staff and a team of our friendly students who will welcome you to the UK, help you with your luggage and answer any questions you might have.

If you are arriving at another UK airport, we recommend you take a connecting flight to Manchester Airport and follow the instructions above. If you’d prefer to travel to Manchester from within the UK by train or bus, you can find train times and book tickets online at www.nationalrail.co.uk or on +44 (0)3457 484950. It may be cheaper to travel by bus, but the journey is likely to be significantly longer. Two companies that offer long distance bus travel in the UK are www.megabus.com and www.nationalexpress.com. Information on transport in the London area is available from ww.tfl.gov.uk. A taxi from the bus or train stations to your accommodation should cost around £15.

If you arrive before 9am or after 5pm and have a serious problem please contact the University emergency number free on 0800 838 907. 49

“I usually talk to my parents once or twice a week, and more to my friends – we usually talk through Facebook or online phone calls.” JAY

Te l e p h o n e Mobile phones (cell phones) International phone calls can be very expensive from a mobile in the UK so we advise you to compare the deals available from different networks to find one that suits you. Some popular networks in the UK are Vodafone, O2, EE, 3, Giffgaff and Virgin. There are two main types of mobile phone plans available: ‘Pay as you go’ You pay a fixed price for the handset and SIM card and then pay for calls as you make them. ‘Contract’ or ’pay monthly’ You pay a monthly charge for a set amount of minutes, texts (SMS) and an internet data allowance.

The contract periods are usually for a minimum of 12 months, and many are 18 or 24, so it can be impractical for international students to get contract phones.

keeping in touch Landline phones Landline telephone packages may include free calls at certain times of day or reduced price calls to favourite numbers. Calls to British numbers are usually cheaper or even free at the weekends and between 7pm and 7am on weekdays. Popular networks include BT, Sky, Virgin and TalkTalk. Direct dialling overseas To dial overseas from the UK you will need to dial in sequence: 00 + country code + area code (minus the initial 0 or 9) + local number. www.bt.com/international-guide

Online communication Once you’ve registered as a student, you’ll be given free access to WiFi on campus and a University email address. You can also access free WiFi in many cafés around the city. You can easily keep in touch with family and friends back home using social media, online chat such as Google Hangouts or WhatsApp, and free voice and video calls through services such as Skype, FaceTime and VolPtalk.

“Skype has been a life saver! Sometimes all you want to do is be able to see your Mom and Dad and say ‘Hi’ to them, and it makes everything better.” JUSTIN

Postal services Post (or mail) within the UK can be sent either first class (1-2 working days) or second class (2-3) and you can buy stamps from newsagents, supermarkets and card shops. You can also get next day delivery or ‘signed for’ services at the Post Office. Royal Mail is the standard postal service in the UK, but you can use other services such as DHL or FedEx if you wish. To send post internationally you will need special stamps and airmail stickers from the Post Office. www.royalmail.com

Maria, Albert Square

getting around 52

Buses

Tr a i n s

Several bus companies operate services around Manchester including Stagecoach, Magic Bus and First. www.tfgm.com

National and local train services are available in the city centre from Piccadilly, Victoria and Oxford Road railway stations. A 24-hour passenger information service is available on +44 (0)8457 484950 or at www.nationalrail.co.uk. Tickets must be purchased before boarding the train, either online or at the station ticket office or machine. Long-distance fares are often cheaper if booked in advance.

Daily or weekly tickets can be purchased on the bus and are cheaper if you will be making several journeys. Lots of students get an annual or semester student bus pass from Stagecoach. These can be bought online at www.buymyunirider.com or in person at the Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union.

Citymapper is a great free app available on Apple and Android, to help you plan the best route around the city. It can be really useful when you first get here!

You are eligible to buy a Young Persons Railcard if you are between 16 and 25, or if you are over 26 and in full-time education. It entitles you to a 1/3 off rail travel across the UK, and you can get one at major train stations or online at www.16-25railcard.co.uk

Tr a m s

Cyc l i n g

The Metrolink tram system links Bury, Oldham and Rochdale (north of Manchester), Altrincham (south of Manchester), Manchester Airport and Salford to the city centre. The tram also runs through the city centre linking Piccadilly railway station, Piccadilly bus station, Shudehill bus station and Manchester Victoria railway station. Tickets should be bought from a machine on the Metrolink platform before boarding the tram.

Cycling is a quick, convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around the city, and there are an increasing number of safe cycle lanes across Manchester, including a new one on Oxford Road.

Timetables are available at: www.metrolink.co.uk

Ta x i s Taxis are a relatively expensive but a convenient and safe way to travel. Before you make a journey by taxi, you should ask the driver for the likely cost of your journey and ensure that you have enough cash with you. You can stop a black cab in the street, but a private hire cab, which looks like a normal car, must be booked in advance.

Bike theft does happen, but you can easily deter thieves by buying an inexpensive bike and securing it with a sturdy D-lock to bike stands, rather than lamp posts or railings. It is compulsory to have lights if you will be cycling after dark and you should always wear a helmet.

Driving Manchester is a very convenient city to get around without a car and very few British students bring cars to Manchester. Fuel, insurance, licensing and tax are all expensive, as are the costs of any repairs. Parking across the city is limited and expensive, especially around the campus. 53

banking in the uk You should open a UK bank account as soon as possible when you arrive. Unless you are paying your fees in full in advance or youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a sponsored student, you will need a UK bank account in order to pay tuition fees in instalments.

Ty p e s o f a c c o u n t Current account This is a basic account for day-to-day purchases and deposits. A current account is useful because it allows you to pay for things, including tuition fees and accommodation, in instalments by setting up a Direct Debit. Some student bank accounts are only for UK students, so check the terms and conditions before applying. Certain banks offer Shariah compliant accounts. International (non-EU) citizens Think about choosing an account or a bank that issues monthly paper bank statements. Online statements cannot be used to support an immigration application and the bank may not be able to provide any further proof of your transactions. Keep and file your bank statements, as obtaining reprints can take time and can incur a fee.

Siyi, Exchange Square

Savings account It is a good idea to open a savings account if you intend to deposit a lot of money into an account, as you will receive a higher interest rate. This money may not be as accessible so you should check the details with your bank. You will not be able to set up a Direct Debit from a savings account.

Opening your account It may take up to three weeks for a bank account to be fully set up and for you to access the money in the account, but you should receive your account number and sort code (which you need to set up a Direct Debit) within a few days. Bank of China (UK) Ltd can open bank accounts for Chinese students before departure, with no fee. Barclays offers two types of accounts that can be partially opened before you arrive in the UK. For all other banks, accounts will need to be fully opened in person once you are in the UK and further information about opening an account will be included in your Welcome pack. If you’re studying for less than a year If you are in the UK for less than one year, it may be more difficult to open a bank account. Contact your bank before you come to the UK to make sure you’ll be able to access your money while you’re here. At the time of writing, we are aware that only Bank of China and Barclays are able to offer current accounts to students staying in the UK for less than six months.

Further information Barclays www.barclays.co.uk Bank of China (UK) Ltd www.bankofchina.com/uk

Ty p e s o f B a n k C a r d s Debit cards If your account comes with a Visa Debit or Maestro card, this can be used to pay instead of cash in most shops and online. Solo cards work in the same way but are not as widely accepted. As long as you have sufficient funds, the money is transferred directly from your account. Credit cards If you use a credit card the money is not automatically debited from your account; instead you receive a bill at the end of the month to cover what you have spent. If you have a Visa or MasterCard credit card from your own country, you will be able to use it at most shops and restaurants in the UK, and online. You are only likely to be able to get a UK credit card if you will be staying in the country for at least 12 months. Ensure you read the terms and conditions carefully before using a credit card as there can be very high interest rates if you do not pay your bills in full each month. Store cards Many department stores and some clothing shops offer a store card. Store cards usually work like credit cards but offer you special discounts in the store, but often have very high interest rates.

UK banks and Building Societies www.bankofengland.co.uk

healthcare services Emergency treatment is free of charge to everyone in the UK. Free healthcare is available on the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Health Service (NHS) to all students studying in the UK for longer than six months, as well as students from EU countries and countries with reciprocal health agreements. If you are not eligible for free NHS healthcare you should take out private medical insurance. If you already have medical insurance in your home country, you may be able to extend it to cover your stay in the UK.

Registering with a GP (doctor) If you are entitled to NHS treatment you will be able to use most GP services free of charge, as well as having access to free emergency and non-emergency treatment in hospitals. There will be opportunities to register with a GP on campus during Welcome. Alternatively you can search for a local GP online at www.nhs.uk and then visit your chosen practice with proof of your address in Manchester to register. GP surgeries provide a range of services by appointment, including medical advice, examinations, vaccinations and prescriptions. If you are issued with a prescription, you will need to redeem it from a pharmacy or chemist, for a fixed charge.

Accessing other healthcare services NHS 111 You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently

need medical help or advice but it’s not a life-threatening situation. Free to call from a mobile and landline, it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Pharmacist (Chemist) Your local pharmacist can give you advice on common illnesses and the medicines you need to treat them. They are highly trained healthcare professionals and most now have private consultation spaces. 999 and Accident and Emergency Accident and Emergency (A&E) hospital departments provide immediate emergency care for people with symptoms of serious illness or who are badly injured. Although there are times when you might need emergency care, most of the time one of the other services mentioned will be able to help. Accident and Emergency departments and 999 should only be used in very serious or life-threatening situations. Dental health You will need to register with a dentist separately. There is a charge for all adult dental treatment in the UK but if you are eligible for NHS healthcare you can register with an NHS dentist for subsidised treatment. Opticians There are many opticians (optometrists) in Manchester where you can book an appointment whenever required. You do not need to register with a particular optician. There is generally a charge for eye tests as well as glasses and contact lenses. If you are from the EU, you will need to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you come to Manchester. You’ll need to bring it to doctors appointments to prove you’re entitled to free NHS healthcare.

Further information NHS services www.nhs.uk Disability Advisory and Support Service www.manchester.ac.uk/dass 57

Cara Ireland

“Manchester is definitely grey and rainy sometimes, but when it’s sunny everyone’s really happy and they definitely make the most of it!”